Locked in a cage to unlock hope: Dominique’s mission for Mandela Day
From bullying to breakthroughs, Belly2Brain’s founder shares the emotional highs and lows of her cage campaign to feed the vulnerable.
Dominique Tibbles, founder of Belly2Brain, had spent 50 hours inside a cage by the time of publication –part of her 67-hour Mandela Day challenge to raise funds to feed 17 000 people in need.
While her physical freedom was limited, her purpose was powerful.
“So far, it’s been mixed emotions,” she shared. “There’s been some bullying, both in person and online, but working in the non-profit space gives you rhino skin. We’ve learnt to see those individuals as hurt people who haven’t yet dealt with their own pain.”
Despite the negativity, she said the outpouring of support has been deeply uplifting.
“There’s been so much joy around the cage – people have been cheering us on, celebrating the work we do, sharing their stories, and laughing with our fabulous unicorn mascot who came straight from our charity shop to bring a little sparkle to the mall.”
At the time of writing, the team had raised R50 000 of the R110 000 needed to make the 17 000 sandwiches – a significant undertaking that continues today, July 18. Community members are encouraged to get involved by helping to make the sandwiches or donating towards the cause.
“This event is part of our annual calendar. We’ve hosted Sandwich Day for the past seven years,” said Dominique. “It raises awareness for the other work we do throughout the year, and ultimately, it helps us build the trust and momentum we need to open our boys’ house of safety.”
Since 2021, the number of people they aim to feed has grown from 3 800 to 17 000. Dominique believes this is likely their upper limit, given current resources.
“To many of us, a peanut butter and jam sandwich is just a late-night snack. But for thousands of displaced people in our community, it may be their only meal for the day – or even the week.”
Every rand donated makes a difference.
“You might not be here to help spread the sandwiches at Cradlestone Mall, but your contribution gives someone a moment of dignity and relief. It makes you part of something truly beautiful.”
